Rich enough to be able to ignore the tongue-clucking opinions of respectable society, widow Laura Henderson (Judi Dench, whose performance was nominated for an Oscar in 2006) buys a rundown theater in Depression-era London's West End and cajoles showman Vivian Van Damm (Bob Hoskins) into producing a revue, in this charming and sensuous dramatic comedy based on true events. Other theaters copy their winning formula, so Mrs. Henderson wants to put nude women on the stage, which brings her squarely into conflict with district theater commissioner Lord Cromer (Christopher Guest). When the Blitz threatens to shut down all shows in London, Mrs. Henderson becomes even more determined to keep the revue going.